Bundesliga champions Bayern sailed past VfL Wolfsburg 6-1 last night to reach their 19th final but Stuttgart now have hopes of a fourth cup – and first since 1997 – after seeing off Freiburg, who were making their debut at this stage of the competition.

Arthur Boka gave Stuttgart an early lead as he turned in following a goalmouth scramble. But only five minutes later it was 1-1 when Max Kruse sent another player who has confirmed his summer departure from Freiburg, Jan Rosenthal, clear to equalise.

However, Martin Harnik – who had done so much to set up the opening goal – restored the home lead before the half-hour mark with a header. That proved enough to book a place at the Olympiastadion and ensure Stuttgart a UEFA Europa League berth for next season.

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